Chicago’s McCormick Place has earned Gold Level Certification from the Events Industry Council for its sustainable practices. The certification recognises the convention centre’s environmental and social responsibility efforts. Last year, the venue – managed by Oak View Group – achieved Silver Level in its first certification.
Global standards framework
The EIC Sustainable Event Standards were created through a global collaborative process. The standards specify performance criteria in organisational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact. More than 300 professionals have participated in reviewing the standards.
“We are honoured to receive Gold Level Certification from the Events Industry Council,” said Larita Clark, chief executive of the Metropolitan Pier & Exposition Authority (MPEA), owner of McCormick Place.
Partnership drives progress
Oak View Group partnered with EIC to deepen its commitment to sustainability. The GOAL platform (Green Operations & Advanced Learning), co-founded by OVG, helped venues reach green objectives through best-practice sharing, data collection and on-site consulting.
Strategies that McCormick has put in place
The venue operates the Midwest’s largest farm-to-fork rooftop garden and maintains an onsite non-profit partnership for food rescue. The centre offsets 100% of electricity usage with wind renewable energy and protects migratory birds. It creates custom programmes for clients covering areas like e-waste and booth furnishings. OVG Hospitality incorporates eco-friendly packaging and prioritises local.
The Alliance for Audited Media, a not-for-profit auditing organisation, performed the independent third-party certification.
